Pumpkin Planting time!
It’s time to start planting pumpkins.
Growing pumpkins are so easy and can be done in your own backyard. We have been growing pumpkins for the past three years and every year we learn new things. We also keep growing our pumpkin space where we grow as well. This year we are doubling our pumpkin patch and hope to offer more pumpkins to you this year!
In our years of growing we have learned so much & I have done so much research, I thought I would share my pumpkin planting tips for you to plant and grow your own.
Pumpkin Planting Tips
Planting end of June to beginning of July generally is perfect timing for pumpkins. Pumpkins typically take 90-110 days to mature. Simply plan is 3 months- plant beginning of July, you should have pumpkins beginning of October.
Pumpkins are heat-loving plants, so choose a spot that receives plenty of sunlight and direct sun areas.
Give them plenty of room to grow and spread their vines. Vines can spread well beyond 10 feet, so plant your seeds to expand. I plant mine generally 3-6 feet apart knowing they will grow into each other.
Plant your seeds on a small mound of dirt, to allow for drainage and the water to not sit and settle on the plant. This will allow vines to grow downward & help the plant to drain water faster.
Plant seeds 1-2 inches deep and 2-3 seeds on each mound. This gives you some grace for seeds that don’t germinate.
Water regularly. Our summer temperatures are well above 90 degrees (mostly 100 degrees) which recommend we water daily. We use drip irrigation to ensure a slow and steady flow of water. Water them when the soil seems a little dry, rather than adding more water to wet soil. Deep, infrequent irrigation is ideal.
When the pumpkins themselves begin to grow and turn orange, you will be able decrease water you use. Stop watering entirely about a week before you plan to harvest the pumpkins or when your vines begin to die back.
When the pumpkins start to pop up and grow, fertilizing them is critical, adding fertilizer encourages healthy plant growth.
Monitor for weeds and pests as needed. Weeds take away water usage from the pumpkin plants, so eliminating weeds will ensure all the water is sent to the pumpkin plants. Pests can stress the plants and cause them to be sick or even die. Controlling these factors will help them to grow strong.
Hope you have a successful pumpkin growing season!
Until Next Time,
Almond Girl Jenny